Job Title

The Board of Directors at Access Gallery invites applications for the position of Director/Curator. Founded in 1991, Access Gallery is an artistrun centre with a mission to create conditions of emergence for provocative ideas and work in the visual arts. We enable critical conversations and risk taking through new configurations of artists, audience, and community. The organization searches out opportunities to experiment through collaborations (both local and international) that encourage innovation. We aim to bring visibility and critical reception to artists and cultural practitioners when they need it most, often at moments early in their practices, and have offered important exhibition opportunities to many of Canadas most recognized contemporary artists. Access Gallery is a longstanding member of the Pacific Association of Artist Run Centres. Access is currently celebrating a number of accomplishments in connection with our 20252030 strategic plan, implementing organizational growth by prioritizing inclusive programming, leadership, and audience. While Access has made strides in previous years to encourage inclusive spaces for our community, we are always actively improving accessibility within our exhibitions, physical places, and digital spaces. Part of Accesss strategic goals include the increase and diversification of the operational funding to 20% coming from diverse funding streams, including private funders. This will aid in our strategic goal of developing staff and human resource capacity, as well as making the front entrance of the gallery wheelchair accessible. We also hope to prioritize fostering a network of volunteers, creating close partnerships with neighbors and community partners, as well as bolstering our online engagements through social media. We envision a community where critical and responsive artistic interventions create meaningful exchanges, challenge fixed perspectives, and generate new ways of knowing. We are looking forward to working alongside a new Director/Curator whose skills and vision will enable Access continued success. Job Description: Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Director/Curator establishes the artistic vision for the organization and builds upon Access strong engagements with communities in Vancouver and beyond. The Director/Curator conceives and executes curatorial and public programming, produces publications, and oversees special initiatives. The Director/Curator oversees all aspects of centre operations, and is responsible for maintaining the fiscal health of the organization. The Director/Curator works closely with the Board of Directors to fulfill Access 20252030 strategic plan, which emphasizes the diversification of revenue streams, continued capacity building, alongside a continued commitment to innovative programming. Responsibilities: Operational: Researching and writing grants to secure funding through arts councils, foundations, consular offices, and other cultural organizations. Operational: Overseeing all fiscal matters of the organization, including budget forecasting and managing operational and programming budgets. Operational: Recruiting, training and managing Access Gallery staff, interns, and volunteers. Operational: Overseeing all communications and public relations and coordinating with staff on all outreach. Curatorial: Developing and implementing the organizations artistic vision. Curatorial: Curating Access exhibitions and developing robust and engaging programming (events such as talks, performances, readings, etc). Curatorial: Developing key programming partnerships and collaborations. Curatorial: Overseeing development and production of publications. Leadership: Stewarding and growing the organizations donor base. Leadership: Working closely with Board of Directors to fulfil Access Gallerys 202530 Strategic Plan. Leadership: Leading/working closely with the BoD for Gallerys annual auction fundraising. Leadership: Working alongside Board of Directors to fulfil all fundraising initiatives and campaigns. Leadership: Collaborating with Board of Directors on any special task forces. Qualifications: An advanced degree in fine arts, curatorial studies, art history, visual culture, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. A proven track record of successful grant writing, including the preparation of applications and reports for municipal, provincial, and federal funding bodies, as well as other fundraising initiatives central to the organizations operating budget. A minimum of two years experience working in a public art gallery, artistrun centre, or comparable cultural institution. Strong writing and editorial skills, including experience producing exhibition texts, grant proposals, and communications; demonstrated experience developing and realizing exhibitions, public programs, and publications. Experience with budgeting, financial oversight, and administrative systems, including proficiency with administrative and financial management software. Excellent organizational, project, and time management skills, including the ability to prioritize, plan strategically, and manage multiple timelines and responsibilities effectively. Demonstrated leadership capacity, including team support, mentorship, and collaborative decisionmaking; the ability to work independently, and approach challenges with initiative and resourcefulness. Commitment to equity, accessibility, and antioppressive practices in programming and governance; commitment to supporting emerging cultural practitioners, including artists, curators, and arts administrators. Exemplary knowledge of contemporary art practices and an understanding of the core concerns and history of artistrun culture in Canada. Knowledge of the Vancouver artistrun community and professional network is considered an asset. Experience in editorial and publication production is considered an asset. Experience in fundraising and donor relations is considered an asset. Experience in graphic design and digital communication is considered an asset. How to Apply: How to apply Send a max 2-page letter describing your qualifications and interest in the position, along with your CV formatted together in a single PDF to [email protected]. Please use subject line Director/Curator Call. Shortlisted applicants may be asked for: Up to 10 images of an exhibition(s) you have worked on A statement of curatorial vision Names and contact information for 2 references Past writing examples, such as exhibition didactics, art reviews, curatorial essays, etc. We thank all applicants for their interest; however only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. No phone calls please. Remuneration: Terms: Full-time position beginning with a one-year contract, with the expectation of 3-5 year term renewal following a successful first year. Start Date: Between June 1 and July 1, 2026 Hours: 35 hours/week, flexible schedule Salary: $58-61,000 per annum based on experience + benefits The BC Alliance for Arts + Culture is honoured to work on the traditional, unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples of the xmkwym (Musqueam), Skwxw7mesh (Squamish), and Sllwta (TsleilWaututh) Nations, and 240 other Indigenous communities across BC. #J-18808-Ljbffr